Bill helps minority, women-owned businesses

CHICAGO (AP) — Minority and women-owned businesses are getting some help in Cook County.

CHICAGO (AP) — Minority and women-owned businesses are getting some help in Cook County.

On Wednesday, Gov. Pat Quinn signed a law that will allow the county’s forest preserve district to take into account whether businesses are owned by women or minorities when they are awarding bids for construction and purchasing contracts.

In a news release, Quinn says the bill will give the businesses equal access to part in projects that create jobs.

Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle says the bill — which she delivered to Quinn in May — brings the county’s forest preserve district in line with the county, city of Chicago, Metropolitan Water District and other local government agencies.